Comparing Rimadyl vs. Novox for Dog Pain

Pain Relief Medications: Which Is Best for Your Dog?

PetCareRx Staff Veterinarian

DVM

When it comes to pain medications for pets, there are a lot of options. Learn more about these two top pain medications here, to help with your decision.

In the world of veterinary science, one of the biggest breakthroughs is the development of superior pain medications for dogs. These medications have become much better at relieving pain due to arthritis and joint pain, postoperative pain, and fever in dogs, while improving in safety. A number of these pain medications are available for your pet by prescription from your vet. Two of the most well used are Rimadyl and Novox, which are compared and contrasted below.

WHAT TYPES OF PAIN DO RIMADYL AND NOVOX TREAT?

Both medications are effective in reducing pain associated with arthritis, joint pain, or a recent operation or procedure.

Both NSAIDs can be used to reduce fever.

HOW LONG DOES A DOSE LAST?

Caplets or tablets of Novox and Rimadyl are each administered in doses of 25, 75, or 100 milligrams. The dose will depend on the size of your dog and the intensity of their pain. Each dose, prescribed by your veterinarian, is intended to treat pain for 24 hours.

Arthritic pain relief provided with these medications usually begins to take effect within the first few days of administration.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

All NSAIDs, including Novax and Rimadyl, can result in side effects in some dogs. Most NSAIDs should not be taken in conjunction with other NSAIDs, or corticosteroids.

The primary ingredient in Novax and Rimadyl is Carprofen. Common side effects with Carprofen include common reactions like diarrhea, drowsiness, and loss of appetite.

Additional side effects may include thirstiness and dark stools. Any additional behavior changes should be discussed with your vet. NSAIDs can be hard on a dog’s digestive tract, liver, and kidneys. Side effects should be taken seriously, and long term use should be avoided when possible.

MY PET IS ONLY A FEW WEEKS OLD. CAN I USE NOVOX OR RIMADYL SAFELY?

The active ingredient in both Novox and Rimadyl is Carprofen, and it’s safe to use in puppies that are at least 6 weeks of age.

MY PET IS PREGNANT OR NURSING. CAN I STILL USE ONE OF THESE MEDICATIONS?

These medications are only available by prescription from your veterinarian, so speak with them about using Carprofen if you suspect your dog is pregnant, or if there are any other health concerns with your pet.

HOW DO THEY WORK?

Carprofen, the active ingredient in Novox and Rimadyl, treats pain by inhibiting the production of certain enzymes that lead to tissue inflammation. The inflammation is what causes the pain, and by reducing it, pain is alleviated.These types of medications also reduce fever through enzyme inhibition.

Novox comes in caplet form, and may need to be hidden inside food. Rimadyl comes in both a capsule and a chewable tablet.

Novox is the lesser expensive of the two drugs, though both have the same active ingredient, the same dose levels, and will alleviate your pet’s pain in much the same way.

Application

Pain controlled

Minimum age of application

Rimadyl

Oral; 24 hour dose by chewable tablet or capsule

Arthritis, joint, postoperative; fever reduction

6 weeks and older

Novox

Oral; 24 hour dose by caplet

Arthritis, joint, postoperative; fever reduction

6 weeks and older

More on Arthritic Pain Medication

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.

Our Website

Come see what we're barkin' about

2015 PetCareRx. All Rights Reserved. Terms of Use, Privacy Policy & Security*Restrictions apply. See our discount and shipping policy.
**Our partner PetPlus works hard to make it easier for you to take care of your pet, and they don't want you to worry about costs. If you find a better price for an item from a U.S. licensed, Vet-VIPPS verified online pharmacy, PetPlus will do everything possible to meet or beat that price. Please call us at 1-866-893-0306 to speak with a customer care representative.